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Giants GM Joe Schoen Addresses Key Draft Questions
Schoen discusses Dexter Lawrence's contract, draft strategy, and the team's running back room ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:52am
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The Giants' pre-draft strategy aims to maximize value and flexibility, with GM Joe Schoen open to trading back and considering non-traditional positions.Las Vegas TodayIn his pre-draft press conference, New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen touched on several key topics, including the status of Dexter Lawrence's contract, the strengths of the middle rounds, and the team's running back room. Schoen expressed optimism about the Giants' roster and draft prospects, while also acknowledging the need to be flexible and open to potential trades.
Why it matters
Schoen's comments provide valuable insight into the Giants' draft plans and priorities as they look to build on their progress from last season. The team's approach to Lawrence's contract situation and their willingness to consider trading back in the draft could have significant implications for how the Giants address their roster needs.
The details
Schoen said the Giants have had "good and productive" conversations with representatives of defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence, who is entering the final two years of his contract. The GM noted that the team would like Lawrence to be present but that they are not putting any deadlines on a resolution. Schoen also acknowledged that he would be open to listening to trade offers for Lawrence, though he emphasized that it would be a case-by-case decision. Regarding the draft, Schoen believes the strengths of the middle rounds will be at outside linebacker, wide receiver, and cornerback, which could make trading back an attractive option for the Giants, who have no picks in the third or seventh rounds. While Schoen would like more picks, he said the team won't pass on good players just to acquire additional selections. The GM also expressed confidence in the Giants' running back room, which includes Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy, Devin Singletary, and others, though he acknowledged the team will evaluate players like Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love.
- The pre-draft press conference took place on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.
- The 2026 NFL Draft will begin on Thursday, April 23, 2026, with the Las Vegas Raiders on the clock at No. 1 overall.
The players
Joe Schoen
The general manager of the New York Giants, who is leading the team's preparations for the 2026 NFL Draft.
Dexter Lawrence
A three-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman for the New York Giants, who is entering the final two years of his contract.
Jeremiyah Love
A Heisman Trophy finalist and unanimous All-American running back from Notre Dame, who is expected to be a top draft prospect.
What they’re saying
“We're going to look for the best player regardless of position, and I'm excited about where the roster is right now based on what we did in free agency.”
— Joe Schoen, General Manager, New York Giants
“He's an offensive weapon. He's not just a running back. He can play on 3rd down. You can split him out. He can catch the ball. Certainly an offensive weapon.”
— Joe Schoen, General Manager, New York Giants
What’s next
The Giants will continue their draft preparations in the coming days, with the 2026 NFL Draft set to begin on Thursday, April 23 in Las Vegas. The team will be closely monitoring the Dexter Lawrence contract situation and evaluating their options for the draft, including the possibility of trading back in the early rounds.
The takeaway
Schoen's comments suggest the Giants are taking a balanced and flexible approach to the draft, prioritizing the best available talent while also being open to potential trades to acquire additional picks. The team's handling of the Dexter Lawrence contract situation and their willingness to consider non-traditional positions in the early rounds will be key storylines to follow as the draft approaches.
